Saratoga Hospital’s Dr. Kennedy is First—and Only—NENY Physician Trained in Hidden Scar Breast Surgery
SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY, January 24, 2017—Dr. Patricia Rae Kennedy, a designated breast surgeon at Saratoga Hospital, is the first and only physician in Northeastern New York to be trained in an innovative technique known as Hidden Scar™ Breast Surgery. The advanced procedure is now available at Saratoga Hospital.
During hidden scar surgery, the surgeon removes cancerous tissue through a single, small incision in an inconspicuous place so scarring is less visible. The scar typically is hidden in the crease below the breast, at the edge of the areola or under the armpit. The nipple, areola and surrounding tissue are spared, leaving a more natural-looking breast.
“For so many patients, surgery scars are a constant, often devastating, reminder of their cancer diagnosis,” Dr. Kennedy said. “This surgical technique can make an enormous difference in their psychological and emotional well-being and their quality of life. That’s extremely important—to our patients and to us.”
The Hidden Scar™ Breast Surgery training program was launched by Invuity, a surgical technology company, to provide hands-on training and certification in advanced, less invasive approaches to nipple-sparing mastectomy and lumpectomy. The procedures—and aesthetic results—are made possible by the company’s patented Intelligent Photonics™ technology, which improves visibility by illuminating the entire surgical cavity. Surgeons who are certified in using the technology can safely remove cancerous tumors and perform other complex procedures through smaller incisions.
Dr. Kennedy’s decision to pursue the hidden scar training exemplifies the approach of Saratoga Hospital Center for Breast Care, which emphasizes integrated, patient-centered care from diagnosis through life after cancer. A fellowship-trained breast surgeon, Dr. Kennedy is clinical director of the center.
The risk of recurrence with the hidden-scar option is the same as that with any other type of breast cancer surgery. Patient eligibility depends on the size and location of the tumor and breast shape and size.
Saratoga Hospital Breast Care Center is a key component of Saratoga Hospital’s comprehensive cancer care program. The hospital’s cancer services are accredited with commendation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. Saratoga Hospital Center for Breast Care is located on the hospital’s Wilton campus and can be reached by calling 518-580-2170.
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About Saratoga Hospital: Saratoga Hospital is the Saratoga region’s leading healthcare provider and the only acute-care facility in Saratoga County. With a medical staff of more than 450 providers, the hospital offers care in a broad range of medical specialties at more than 20 locations including its Wilton campus and the Saratoga Medical Park at Malta. The Saratoga Hospital Medical Group ensures easy access to services that can have the greatest impact on both individual and community health. In keeping with its emphasis on quality, Saratoga Hospital was the first in the Capital Region to earn Magnet designation for nursing excellence. On Jan. 1, 2017, Saratoga Hospital finalized its affiliation with Albany Medical Center, joining Columbia Memorial Health in creating a regionally integrated, locally governed healthcare system. For more information: www.saratogahospital.org or www.facebook.com/SaratogaHospital.
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518.583.8679
phopper@saratogahospital.org